York Regional Police Crack Down on Organized Retail Crime in Vaughan
York Regional Police have announced the arrest of 172 individuals and the laying of 358 charges as part of a major operation targeting organized retail crime in Vaughan.
The operation, known as ‘The Theft Project,’ was launched on December 6th in collaboration with Vaughan Mills, the Retail Council of Canada, and retail loss prevention officers. Through this initiative, police have recovered more than $150,000 worth of stolen property.
The project’s primary objective is to mitigate financial losses for local retailers while also addressing retail crime and enhancing security. High-risk locations were pinpointed using historical data, information from retailers, police records, and ongoing investigations.
‘Shoplifting has evolved from sporadic, small-scale theft to a highly sophisticated criminal enterprise leading to billions of dollars in losses,’ the police stated. ‘It jeopardizes the safety of both retailers and consumers in our community.’
The charges announced on Wednesday include 186 counts of theft under $5,000, 4 counts of theft over $5,000, 28 counts of possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, 6 counts of resisting arrest, 11 counts of failing to comply, and assault causing bodily harm.
The project is ongoing, and police are determined to continue their efforts to combat organized retail crime in Vaughan and protect the community.
